Image of the November 2022 Wilderness Magazine Cover Read more from the
November 2022 Issue
Home / Articles / Trail life

A short little guide to the trail bathroom

Intimidating at first, but fresh open breezes and gorgeous views make using the facility-TREES a far superior experience to indoor bathrooms. Get to know the DOs and DON’Ts.

Where to go?

WAG Bag: Poop in the bag, carry it out. Least impact. Follow the instructions on the bag.
Long drops: Use whenever possible. Concentrates waste. Range from 1 to 5 stars.
Catholes: Okay if done properly in moist, deep soil. Dig 15cm at least 60m away from water sources and trails. Poop in the hole.

What to use?

Toilet paper: Older practices taught to bury or burn but it doesn’t break down well. Best to pack int out.
Portable bidet: Rising oil popularity! Poke a hole in a plastic water bottle lid or buy a purpose made version like the Cult Clean. Nothing to pack out!
O’natural: Smooth stones and leaves work great. Learn to ID poisonous plants first.

What about #1?

Pee 60m from water sources. Bidet or a pee rag are toilet paper alternatives for wiping.

Menstruating?

Sanitise hands before changing to prevent infections.
Pack products out – always.
Clean moon cups with purified water only.